Flowering Almond (Prunus triloba)

Flowering Almond

Prunus triloba

Clouds of pink blooms paint early spring with soft romance. Deciduous flowering shrub; common name: flowering almond.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; full sun exposure promotes maximum flower production and dense growth
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
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Temperature Hardy to -20°C; tolerates mild summer heat, but avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 32°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to oblong with serrated margins, bright green turning yellow in autumn
  • Flower: Double pink or white blooms clustered along bare stems before leaf emergence
  • Stem: Slender brown to gray branches forming a dense rounded habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during flowering and active growth; reduce frequency as blooms fade

Fertilization

Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once immediately after flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen may reduce flower production

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odor
Pruning
  • Prune immediately after flowering to shape the shrub and remove dead or damaged wood
  • Thin overcrowded branches to improve airflow and light penetration throughout the canopy
  • Remove suckers at the base to maintain the desired rounded form and prevent overcrowding
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion of leaves, stems, or seeds may release cyanide, causing severe health issues

Humans: Contains cyanogenic glycosides; ingestion of large amounts may cause cyanide poisoning symptoms

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes spring renewal and delicate beauty in East Asian ornamental gardens

Usage: Ornamental shrub for borders, hedges, or standalone specimen planting